Louis Rees-Zammit has played down his aping of Henry Pollock's trademark pulse-check celebration, saying he's "really close" to the England back-row.
The Wales wing stole the show on the weekend as Bristol Bears dismantled Gallagher Prem champions Northampton Saints, scoring two tries in a 41-26 victory. Rees-Zammit was denied a hat-trick on the day, after England and Lions wing Tommy Freeman took him out off the ball.
Celebration explained
After Rees-Zammit's first score, he put his fingers to his neck - mimicking Pollock's famous pulse celebration.
However, speaking to media afterwards as part of Bristol's new NFL-style mixed zone - where all players are available to speak to the press - Rees-Zammit only had positive things to say about Pollock.
"Me and Pollock are really close," he told iNews. "He's doing great things for the sport, and if we want to grow this game, we need personalities, and he's definitely one."
Strong start to the season
Wales head coach Steve Tandy will surely be delighted by Rees-Zammit's start to the season.
The 25-year-old has crossed for four tries in the opening two matches of the campaign, having moved back to his preferred position of wing.
TNT Sports pundit Austin Healey said: "He is just rapid, isn't he. The acceleration. The defender's in a really good defensive position but his first three strides just take his arms too long."
Sam Warburton added: "I think it settles the argument about whether he is a 14 or 15. He's not in those positions as often at 15.
"He's such a serial finisher. That acceleration across 10 metres is almost unrivalled and makes it look so easy."
Coach's praise
Rees-Zammit's club coach, Pat Lam, was equally effusive about the Welshman.
"He is sharp, you know, and he loves finishing," Lam said.
"We know that if we can give him time and space, he is lethal. He is back on the wing (Rees-Zammit made appearances at full-back for club and country last season), and most importantly that is where he wants to be."
